21. Musculoskeletal trauma (Robson)

Question 1

Upper/lower limb - trauma to which is more disabling?

Answer 1

Upper

Question 2

Upper/lower limb - trauma to which tends to be more severe?

Answer 2

Lower

Question 3

Why are pelvic fractures particularly dangerous?

Answer 3

High level of blood loss - very high mortality rate

Question 4

Bleeding from pelvic fracture mainly comes from where? x2

Answer 4

Posterior pelvic venous plexus

Bleeding from the surface of cancellous bones

Question 5

Preferred stabilisation for pelvic fracture is?

Answer 5

External fixation - 8 weeks

Question 6

Advantage of open reduction internal fixation is?

Answer 6

Allows for very accurate reduction

Question 7

Adverse effect of open reduction internal fixation is? x2

Answer 7

Can slow healing if too rigid

Risk of infection

Question 8

If intermedullary nails are too large for the area, what can be used instead for internal fixation?

Answer 8

K-wires

Question 9

What is Volkmann contracture?

Answer 9

Permanent shortening of muscles of the forearm due to injury

Question 10

How does Volkmann contracture present?

Answer 10

Claw grip

Question 11

What is the treatment for compartment syndrome?

Answer 11

Fasciotomy